New Herbs for 2007

In 2007, a number of new herbs for the landscape will be introduced either as seeds or plants. Among the new varieties are the following.

Several new basils will be introduced in 2007. These will need full sun, and are great for container gardens.

Queen of Sheba basil is being introduced by Park Seed. The very attractive plants grow to about 1½ feet in height. During late summer, the dark lavender blooms begin to open in clusters. The leaves have a mild flavor.

Pepper basil has a hot flavor that borders on spicy. This is being introduced by Underwood Gardens. An heirloom variety, this large plant can reach three feet in height with a spread of two feet. Very ornamental, the plants have dark green leaves with a fragrance of green pepper. The flowers are lavender. This is a different species than the common basil.

Sunset Hyssop agastache is bound to be a hit in perennial gardens. Hardy in zones four through ten, this handsome plant grows to about three feet in height. Sunset Hyssop is an excellent choice for butterfly gardens. The bicolored blooms open on crowded spikes that reach eight inches in height. The small leaves are fine textured. Every part of this plant is sweetly fragrant.

Prairie Splendor Echinacea is an excellent plant for herb gardens and perennial borders. Recommended for zones three through nine, this densely bushed plant grows to almost two feet in height, which is slightly shorter than most Echinaceas. Very floriferous, the dark red blooms begin to open in mid-summer. These can be three inches in diameter.

Territorial Seeds is introducing Chrysalis Purple Hardneck garlic. Sold as bulbs, this is a late maturing variety. The large, heavy bulbs have purple streaks. There are around ten cloves per head. This variety originated at Chrysalis Farms in Wisconsin.

Territorial is also introducing Orange Meadowbrite Echinacea for 2007. Sold as plants only, these will be perfect for mixed borders and flower beds. These grow from two to three feet in height. Orange Meadowbrite is unique not only for the color of flowers but also for their pleasant fragrance. They have dark orange petals and dark brown centers.

For 2007, Renee’s Garden is introducing Italian Cameo basil, which is perfect for container gardens. This is a dense plant that reaches only about eight inches in height. It will also be great for edgings. Italian Cameo has large leaves that are very tender and wonderfully scented.